DAVAO CITY — The vibrant spirit of the city is set to shine brighter than ever as Davao City prepares for a month-long celebration of history, culture, and unity during the 89th Araw ng Dabaw this March. This year’s festivities carry extra meaning, as they also mark the centennial anniversary of the iconic Davao City Hall—a century-old symbol of public service and the enduring story of the Dabawenyo people.
From colorful parades and cultural shows to sports competitions and heritage tours, the city’s calendar of activities promises a lively tribute to nearly nine decades since Davao became a chartered city on March 16, 1937.
A Month of Celebration Begins
The celebration officially kicks off on March 1 with the Pasiugdang Pagsaulog at City Hall, setting the festive tone for a month dedicated to pride, progress, and unity. According to the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO), the 2026 celebration highlights both the growth of the city and the resilience of its people.
CTOO Officer-in-Charge Willenito P. Tormis Jr. expressed optimism that all planned activities will unfold successfully, noting that this year’s celebration honors not only the city’s founding anniversary but also the centennial milestone of City Hall and the contributions of Dabawenyos through the decades.
Adding a visual spectacle to the festivities, a three-dimensional projection mapping show will illuminate City Hall every night from March 1 to 31. The light display, paired with ongoing restoration work, will transform the historic building into a glowing centerpiece of the celebration—symbolizing a bridge between Davao’s past and its future.
Showcasing Dabawenyo Talent and Creativity
This year’s Araw ng Dabaw introduces fresh additions designed to highlight the creativity of the local community. Among them is Kanta ug Sayaw Dabawenyo, set on March 27 at Rizal Park Davao, where performers will celebrate music and dance rooted in local culture.
Young filmmakers will also take center stage during Salida Dabawenyo, an inter-school short film competition scheduled from March 10 to 13 at the Cinematheque Davao. The event aims to nurture storytelling and showcase the perspectives of emerging creatives in the city.
Music lovers can enjoy Kundiman at Harana sa Araw ng Dabaw, featuring local musicians performing both traditional and contemporary pieces at City Hall on March 7–8 and March 20–22.
Sports, Pageantry, and Community Events
The celebration also welcomes major sporting events that draw participants and spectators from across the region and beyond. Among the highlights are the BYD Ironman 70.3 Davao on March 22 and the RLC Ironkids Davao Aquathlon on March 21, both taking place along the scenic Davao City Coastal Road.
Adding glamour to the festivities, the much-anticipated Mutya ng Dabaw coronation night will be held on March 20 at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium. The pageant remains one of the most awaited events of the celebration, highlighting beauty, intelligence, and the spirit of the modern Dabawenya.
Also on March 20, the 2GO Gwapa Dabawenya event will bring together participants in a lively showcase of style and personality along the coastal road.
Discovering Davao’s Heritage
In keeping with this year’s focus on history, the CTOO and the Office of Culture and the Arts will host heritage walking tours around City Hall on March 14 and 21, giving participants a closer look at the architectural and historical significance of the landmark. School-based tours are also set for March 3, 5, and 10 to introduce students to the city’s rich past.
Meanwhile, the celebration will extend beyond the city center through Araw ng Dabaw sa Distrito on March 9, 11, and 16, bringing the festivities directly to various districts and allowing more communities to join the festivities.
Grand Highlights Await
One of the most anticipated moments of the festival, the Parada Dabawenyo, will take place on March 28 starting at 6 a.m., filling the streets with vibrant floats, performers, and participants representing diverse sectors of the city. The celebration will continue into the evening with the Konsierto Dabawenyo at San Pedro Square, where music and entertainment will bring thousands together in a festive gathering.
Honoring a City’s Story
Araw ng Dabaw is more than just a festival—it is a tribute to the journey of Davao as a chartered city and a celebration of the culture, traditions, and resilience of its people. Declared annually every March, with March 1 marking the official start of festivities, the event also serves as a special non-working holiday in the city.
While often mistaken for the Kadayawan Festival held every August, Araw ng Dabaw carries a different meaning. It commemorates the city’s founding and highlights the unity of communities, indigenous groups, and various sectors that make up the vibrant identity of Davao.
As the city prepares for the grand celebration, organizers are encouraging residents and visitors alike to take part in the events, explore the city’s heritage, and celebrate the milestones that shaped one of Mindanao’s most dynamic urban centers.
With 89 years of progress and a century of history at City Hall, the message for Dabawenyos this year is clear: Padayon sa paglambo, padayon sa pakighiusa—continue growing, and continue standing united.